Air Fryer Cornish Hen Recipe: A Perfectly Crispy and Juicy Delight

Cornish hens are a delightful choice for special occasions or a gourmet-style dinner at home. These small, tender birds are easy to prepare, and when cooked in an air fryer, they turn out irresistibly crispy on the outside while staying juicy and flavorful inside. This Air Fryer Cornish Hen Recipe is a time-saving, hassle-free way to enjoy a restaurant-quality meal. Whether you’re cooking for two or hosting a small gathering, this dish is sure to impress.

Nutrition Information

Cornish hens are a lean source of protein and a great option for a balanced meal. Here’s the approximate nutritional breakdown for one serving of this recipe:

• Calories: 320 kcal
• Protein: 30 g
• Carbohydrates: 2 g
• Fat: 22 g
• Fiber: 0 g
• Sodium: 500 mg

(Values may vary based on the size of the hen and the specific ingredients used.)

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Recipe Overview

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Active Time (Cooking): 35 minutes
• Resting Time: 5 minutes
• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Cuisine: American
• Course: Main Course
• Servings: 2
• Calories per Serving: 320

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Equipment Needed

• Air fryer (large enough to fit two Cornish hens or one at a time)
• Kitchen shears (optional, for spatchcocking)
• Small mixing bowl
• Basting brush
• Meat thermometer

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Ingredients

• 2 Cornish hens (about 1 to 1.5 lbs each)
• 2 tbsp olive oil or melted butter
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1 tsp dried thyme or rosemary (optional)
• 1 tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• 1 lemon, halved (optional, for stuffing or serving)
• Fresh herbs (like parsley or thyme) for garnish

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Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Cornish Hens

1. Clean the hens: Rinse the Cornish hens under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels. Remove any giblets from the cavity if present.
2. Optional spatchcocking: For even cooking, you can use kitchen shears to remove the backbone of each hen and flatten them slightly.

Step 2: Season the Hens

1. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil (or melted butter), garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, thyme, salt, and black pepper.
2. Rub this mixture generously all over the hens, ensuring you coat both the skin and the cavity for maximum flavor.

Step 3: Preheat the Air Fryer

• Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for 5 minutes.

Step 4: Cook the Hens

1. Place the seasoned hens in the air fryer basket breast-side down. Ensure there’s enough space for air circulation.
2. Cook at 375°F (190°C) for 20 minutes.
3. Flip the hens so they are breast-side up and cook for another 10-15 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) in the thickest part of the breast. Use a meat thermometer for accuracy.

Step 5: Rest and Serve

1. Once cooked, remove the hens from the air fryer and let them rest for 5 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute.
2. Garnish with fresh herbs and serve with lemon wedges for a fresh, zesty finish.

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Serving Suggestions

Pair these air fryer Cornish hens with your favorite sides for a complete meal. Some great options include:

• Roasted vegetables (like carrots, Brussels sprouts, or green beans)
• Garlic mashed potatoes
• Wild rice or quinoa salad
• A fresh garden salad

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Tips for the Best Air Fryer Cornish Hen Recipe

1. Don’t overcrowd the air fryer: Cook the hens in batches if needed to ensure even cooking.
2. Check the temperature early: Start checking the internal temperature 5 minutes before the suggested cooking time ends to avoid overcooking.
3. Experiment with flavors: Add a pinch of cayenne for spice or swap dried thyme with oregano for a Mediterranean twist.

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Conclusion

This Air Fryer Cornish Hen Recipe is a must-try for anyone looking for a simple yet elegant dish. With minimal prep and just a few ingredients, you can create a meal that looks and tastes gourmet. Plus, the air fryer cuts down on cooking time and ensures a perfectly crispy skin every time. Whether for a romantic dinner or a small family feast, this recipe is bound to become a favorite in your household.